Denise Griggs

Denise Griggs, 56, of Ellijay, woke in the arms of Jesus Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, at her home.

A beautiful soul left this world too soon.

She was born July 12, 1964, in Ellijay, to the late Jerry Patterson and the late Mildred Gillespie Gaddis. She was a Gilmer High graduate. 

She is preceded in death by grandparents; husband, Byron Evans; and brother, Wes Patterson

She was a truly delightful, generous, compassionate and fun-loving person who always put others before herself. A faithful Christian, she had a God-given gift of bringing love and happiness to people, and she brightened the lives of every single person she met, especially while a customer service associate at Walmart #1070 for 22 years. She was a symbol of strength to the very end. 

She loved so many and so freely. She will be forever remembered for her infectious smile, caring heart, beautiful laughter and her kind, sweet spirit.

She leaves behind her stepchildren, Amy (Erik) Ostrom, of Jasper, Becky Evans, of Ruskin, Fla., Byron Evans II, of Ellijay; siblings, Eddie (Darlene) Patterson, Billy (Ameris) Gillespie, all of Ellijay, Tina (Hugh) Pendley, of Jasper; Ramona (Eddie) Ledford, of Villa Rica; Talitha Rogers, Joe Patterson, both of Ellijay; stepsisters, Susan Gaddis, Samantha Gaddis, both of Ellijay; and extended relatives and many friends.

A celebration of life will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18, 2020, at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 1036 N. Main Street in Jasper with Ben Mock officiating. 

Although our hearts are heavy, we will celebrate her life as we strive to live out the legacy she left behind: lots of love and laughter. She was an “angel among us” who is now walking among angels in heaven. The circle is broken here on Earth, but in heaven she is joined with Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, our mom, dad, Byron, Wes and many others who were waiting for her. One day the circle will be unbroken when we all gather home. 

We find comfort knowing that she is in heaven watching over us. Good night for now sis, We love you bunches. Celebrate your first Christmas in heaven and we will meet you in the morning.